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LLETZ Procedure & Cone Biopsy

LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) and cone biopsy are treatments used to remove abnormal cells from the cervix.

About this Procedure What's Involved? Find A Specialist

LLETZ and cone biopsy procedures are usually recommended if a colposcopy or biopsy shows significant cell changes (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, CIN). 

Both treatments aim to remove the abnormal area completely, which helps prevent cervical cancer from developing. 

  • LLETZ uses a thin heated wire loop to remove abnormal tissue. 

  • Cone biopsy removes a small cone-shaped section of tissue from the cervix, usually under general anaesthetic. 

Why are these procedures performed? 

These treatments are offered to: 

  • remove abnormal cervical cells before they can turn into cancer 

  • provide a larger tissue sample to confirm diagnosis 

  • reduce the long-term risk of cervical cancer 

What's involved

LLETZ (Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone) and cone biopsy are two procedures used to remove abnormal cells from the cervix.

Your gynaecologist will guide you through the process for your procedure, explain your results, and support you with any questions or concerns. 

You do not need to face this alone. Your gynaecology team is there to reassure you and ensure you understand each step of your care.

Risks & Side Effects

Most people recover well after LLETZ or cone biopsy. Possible risks include infection, heavy bleeding, or scarring of the cervix. Cone biopsy, in rare cases, can slightly increase the risk of premature birth in future pregnancies. 

Your gynaecologist will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.  

LLETZ

  • Usually done at the time of colposcopy under local anaesthetic, but general anaesthesia will be the right choice for some people 

  • The cervix is numbed, and a wire loop is used to remove the abnormal area. 

  • The procedure usually takes about 15–20 minutes. 

  • Some mild cramping or a stinging sensation may be felt. 

Cone Biopsy

  • Usually performed in hospital under general anaesthetic. 

  • A small cone-shaped section of the cervix is removed with a scalpel or laser. 

  • The procedure takes around 30–40 minutes, and you may need to stay in hospital for a few hours or overnight. 

Recovery
Results & follow-up

Find A Specialist

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  • Dr Kate van Harselaar

    Gynaecologist